Bora Bora: Private Boat Tour with Snorkeling and Drinks

If you’re dreaming of exploring Bora Bora’s legendary turquoise waters without the crowds and with a touch of personalized attention, this private boat tour with snorkeling and drinks might be just what you need. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but from what travelers say and what’s included, it sounds like a genuinely enjoyable way to see the lagoon with the comfort of a private setting.

One thing that clearly appeals is the intimate nature of this experience — it’s just your group and a knowledgeable captain, which means flexibility and personalized service. The second highlight is how much emphasis is placed on discovering hidden gems within the lagoon, along with the chance to see marine life like sharks, rays, and turtles up close.

A possible consideration is the duration — at just 3 hours, it’s a relatively quick trip, so those expecting a full-day adventure might need to plan for additional activities afterward. Also, since it’s a boat tour, it’s best suited for non-seasick travelers and non-swimmers might find snorkeling a bit challenging unless they’re comfortable in the water.

This tour is a great pick for travelers who want a relaxed, personalized experience, especially if they value expert guides and stunning scenery without sharing their boat with strangers.

Key Points

• Private setting offers personalized attention and flexibility.
• Snorkeling among vibrant coral gardens and marine life is a highlight.
• Expert guides help you discover hidden lagoon beaches and viewpoints.
• Includes drinks: water, juice, soda, and beer for refreshment.
• Duration is 3 hours, making it perfect for a half-day outing.
• Suitable for those comfortable in the water and not prone to seasickness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at What This Tour Offers

When considering a Bora Bora lagoon experience, the private boat tour with snorkeling and drinks strikes a good balance between comfort, exploration, and relaxation. It’s operated by MOANA ADVENTURE TOURS, and from the reviews and descriptions, it seems to prioritize quality, safety, and genuine engagement with the lagoon environment.

The itinerary is straightforward but packed with memorable moments. You’ll be picked up from your accommodation — a nice touch that saves you the hassle of organizing transport — then taken aboard a spacious 25-foot catamaran. The boat itself is roomy enough for your group, creating a comfortable setting whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group of friends.

What to Expect During the Tour

The experience begins with a safety briefing, which lasts about 2.5 hours. During this time, your captain will go over safety procedures and offer insights into the lagoon’s ecology. This prep helps you feel secure and informed before you hit the water.

Following safety instructions, it’s time for snorkeling — estimated at around 2.5 hours — where you’ll dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant coral gardens. Here, you might come across black tip sharks, leopard rays, turtles, and manta rays, along with schools of shimmering fish. The reviews reflect this well, with one traveler noting, “We swam with sharks, sting rays, and lots of other fish at the coral gardens.” The coral reefs are said to be quite colorful and lively, making it a photographer’s paradise.

Throughout the trip, the captain will point out spots and hidden beaches that are hard to reach on land, adding an exclusive feel to the tour. These secret corners of Bora Bora’s lagoon are what make this experience stand out — small, secluded beaches where you can enjoy the tranquility away from the crowds.

The Drinks and Relaxation Element

One of the relaxed touches is the onboard cooler filled with ice-cold water, juice, soda, and beer. This keeps you refreshed during the tour, perfect for lounging after snorkeling or simply soaking up the views. If you’re looking to sip on a cold drink while enjoying the scenery, this tour offers a laid-back vibe that really works.

The Guide and Their Role

From reviews, it’s clear that the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with many travelers praising their ability to find the best snorkeling spots and share insights about marine life. One reviewer said, “Glen was fun, knowledgeable, and spoke excellent English,” highlighting how the guides can elevate the experience through their expertise.

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Considering the Duration and Group Size

At just 3 hours, this tour is a good option for those who want a taste of Bora Bora’s lagoon without committing to a full day. It’s also a private group experience, meaning you won’t be stuck with strangers — perfect for couples, small families, or friends seeking exclusivity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience fits well for travelers after a personalized, relaxed outing. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable snorkeling and enjoy marine life encounters, as well as those who appreciate guided insights into the lagoon’s secrets. It’s less suitable for non-swimmers or those prone to seasickness, given the boat-based nature and water activities.

The Value for Money

While the price isn’t specified here, the focus on a private experience with drinks, snorkeling, and expert guidance suggests it’s a quality option for those who prioritize intimacy and personalized service. Travelers have expressed high satisfaction, with many reviewers rating it 5 out of 5, describing their day as “amazing” and “highly recommended.”

The short duration might seem limiting for some, but for many, it’s enough to get a good taste of Bora Bora’s lagoon with enough time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

In Summary: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a personalized, intimate experience on Bora Bora’s lagoon, with the opportunity to snorkel in vibrant waters and be guided by someone who knows where the best spots are, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate comfort, attention to detail, and the chance to see marine life up close in a relaxed environment.

It’s less ideal if you’re looking for a full-day adventure or are not comfortable in the water. But if you’re fine with a half-day, want a private setting, and love the idea of sipping drinks while discovering the lagoon’s hidden corners, this could turn into one of your favorite memories of Bora Bora.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-swimmers?
This tour involves snorkeling, which requires comfort in the water. Non-swimmers might find it challenging unless they’re comfortable with shallow water and using snorkeling gear.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you a good window to enjoy snorkeling and lagoon exploration without it feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the onboard cooler supplies water, juice, soda, and beer, so you can relax and refresh at any point during the trip.

Can I cancel the booking?
Absolutely, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for last-minute changes.

What language do guides speak?
Guides operate in both English and French, so communication should be smooth regardless of your language preference.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, towel, waterproof camera, biodegradable sunscreen, snorkeling gear, and a protective face mask, if needed.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed to families, it’s best suited for adults and older children comfortable in the water and not prone to seasickness.

Would this experience work for a single traveler?
Since it’s a private group tour, singles are very welcome. It’s a great way to have a personalized, relaxed day with an expert guide.

Final Thoughts

This Bora Bora private boat tour offers a wonderful mix of relaxation, adventure, and discovery. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the lagoon at their own pace, with knowledgeable guides enhancing the experience through local insights and spotting marine life. The inclusion of drinks adds a laid-back, social vibe that makes it feel like a day out with friends.

While it might not satisfy those craving a full-day or multi-activity tour, it hits the sweet spot for a half-day escape into Bora Bora’s breathtaking waters. The small-group, private setup ensures a more personal touch, making it feel exclusive without the hefty price tag of larger, group excursions.

If you’re someone who values quality over quantity and wants a peaceful, scenic snapshot of Bora Bora’s lagoon with plenty of chances for snorkeling and relaxing, this tour could very well be a highlight of your trip.

Note: Always check current availability and confirm details like starting times and prices before booking, as these can change.

You can check availability for your dates here: